09/01/18: £7,119 boost for Weeting community facilities

Improvements to two Weeting community facilities can go ahead after grants totalling £7,119 were approved by Breckland councillors.

The £4,000 grant to Weeting Bowls Club will enable the toilets to be moved into the changing rooms, which are only used occasionally; this will create more space in the club area and provide improved access to a second fire escape. The toilets will also be refurbished and a new disabled toilet added.

Carol Newman, Treasurer of the Bowls Club said: "This is great news for the Club. We've had feedback from local users and visiting groups about the poor state of the toilets, so we're keen to get going with the work as soon as possible."

Cllrs William Nunn and Sam Chapman-Allen, Breckland Council ward members for Weeting with Broomhill said: "It's important that we support these community facilities, as they provide a central meeting place where residents can socialise and keep active. Providing modern and hygienic facilities as well as increasing the useable space will enable the club to attract new members and continue to thrive."

The £3,119 award to Weeting Village Hall will enable its failing heating system to be repaired and new radiators installed. Clubs currently using the hall include keep fit, knit and knatter, over 60's and a local drama group who stage shows there twice yearly.

Karen Scott, Treasurer of the Village Hall Committee explained: "There are around 20 local groups currently using the hall. Our existing gas heaters don't work properly so the hall no longer provides a comfortable environment for them in cold weather. This especially affects our older residents."

Cllr Mike Nairn, who lives in the village, supported the application: He said: "I came to Weeting in 1978 and I think that the system is the same as when I arrived. The village hall is a valuable asset within the village and wider community, and is used daily for events and activities, so I support this application wholeheartedly."

The cost of renewal is estimated at £6,238, which will provide a more eco-friendly and energy efficient system; £2,000 will be donated by the Friends of Weeting Village Hall with the balance made up from Committee reserves.

For more information about grants from Breckland Council, contact the Norfolk Community Foundation who administer the funds on Breckland's behalf - tel 01603 623958, email grants@norfolkfoundation.com or visit www.norfolkfoundation.com/funds/breckland-council-community-funding